One week left to declare in public housing amnesty

2013-08-23

Public housing tenants have one more week to declare unauthorised household members or additional income without penalty under Housing SA's amnesty.

Minister for Social Housing Tony Piccolo said the amnesty has so far received 626 reports from tenants and community members.

"Under the terms of the amnesty, public housing tenants can update their details without fear of being penalised or charged back rent, so it's important they take up this opportunity before it runs out at the end of the month," said Mr Piccolo.

"Since the amnesty began on August 1, Housing SA has received 514 declarations from public housing tenants and 112 reports from community members.

"Tenants who do not declare during the amnesty and are later caught doing the wrong thing will end up paying a large amount of back rent and, in some cases, Housing SA will take steps to terminate tenancy agreements."

Mr Piccolo said a fair rent system for tenants was essential to the state's public housing.

"Rent paid to Housing SA provides funds to enable us to conduct maintenance on existing public housing properties, and also construct new homes.

"Through the amnesty, we are working to ensure a fair and equitable public housing system for South Australians."

Housing SA tenants or members of the community can report:By email to housingsa.amnesty@dcsi.sa.gov.auOnline at www.sa.gov.au/housingsa/amnesty.Or by phone on 1300 138 093 during business hours.